Gerald Davies was one of the most electric wings of his era, playing in every Test of the victorious 1971 Lions tour of New Zealand.
Sir Thomas Gerald Reames Davies CBE was born on 7 February 1945 in Llansaint, Wales, and attended Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Carmarthen before studying at Loughborough College and later Emmanuel College, Cambridge. He played club rugby for Llanelli, Cambridge University, London Welsh, and Cardiff, captaining the latter for three seasons in the 1970s. Davies made his Wales debut in 1966 against Australia, initially at centre before switching to the right wing, where his blend of pace, elusiveness, and try-scoring instinct established him as one of the finest wingers of his generation. He earned 46 caps for Wales, winning three Five Nations Grand Slams, and scored a memorable last-minute try against Scotland in 1971 that secured the title for Wales. Davies toured with the British Lions on both the 1968 and 1971 tours, scoring three tries in South Africa and a further three against the All Blacks on the historic 1971 series-winning tour of New Zealand, playing all four Tests. He is regarded as one of the finest wingers ever to wear the Lions jersey. Davies retired in the late 1970s and moved into sports journalism and administration, later serving as manager of the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa. He was knighted for his services to rugby and remains one of the most celebrated attacking players in Welsh rugby history.
Legendary Welsh wing, key player in 1971 Lions series win
How They Played
Davies was renowned for his exceptional pace, elusive running, and ability to find gaps in opposition defenses. He possessed excellent footwork and acceleration that made him devastating in broken play situations. His intelligent positioning and tactical awareness allowed him to create scoring opportunities both for himself and his teammates.
Lasting Impact
Davies is widely regarded as one of the greatest wingers in Welsh rugby history and helped establish Wales as a dominant force during the 1970s. His contributions to Welsh rugby's golden era cemented his status as a legendary figure in the sport.
Career Honours
- 1971 Lions series winner
- Wales Grand Slam 1971, 1976, 1978
- Welsh Sports Hall of Fame
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| London Welsh | 1970–1979 | 183 | 22 | #14 |
| Cardiff RFC | 1966–1978 | — | — | — |
 Wales | — | 46 | 20 | — |